Most people who live in Minneapolis love living here because of the convenience and excitement of city living. Minneapolis is so diverse and vibrant in its food, its people, and its culture: we couldn’t ask for a better city in which to reside. Of course, every once in a while, it’s nice to get away for a day. To help you in that effort, we’ve assembled 10 of the very best day trips in Minneapolis and the surrounding area.

1. Anoka, MN
Anoka, MN, USA
Facebook/City of Anoka, Minnesota
Anoka, the official Halloween Capital of the World, is situated along the Rum River northwest of Minneapolis. Anoka's Main Street is a must visit. It's the perfect spot to go antiquing in the Twin Cities, and just blocks off Main is the historic Hans' Bakery.
2. Alexandria, MN
Alexandria, MN 56308, USA
Carlos Creek Winery Facebook Page
Alexandria is a beautiful town in northern Minnesota and is immensely popular in the summer because of its many great lakes. If water sports or fishing aren't your thing, the legendary Carlos Creek Winery is the perfect place to tour and have a glass of wine...or three!
3. Stillwater, MN
Stillwater, MN 55082, USA
Flickr/Dave Gingrich
Stillwater is on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin, with only the St. Croix River separating the two. This eclectic town offers a wealth of unique things to do. It is known for its fall festival, its small shops, and absolutely killer upscale restaurants. The whole town is absolutely stunning.
4. Red Wing, MN
Red Wing, MN, USA
Flickr/Jenni Konrad
National Geographic Traveler Magazine has proclaimed Red Wing as one of the most historic towns in the country. The town has a significant indigenous history, and there are a few museums to feature pottery and the well-known Red Wing Shoe. Since it's situated along the Mississippi River, there are plenty of scenic views. Why wouldn't you want to take a day trip there? Its one of the best day trips in Minnesota!
5. New Ulm, MN
New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
Flickr/Daniel Hooker
Whether you want to get in touch with your own German heritage, or tour the popular Schell's brewery, a day trip to New Ulm is sure to satisfy you. The town has various monuments dedicated to German history, and the small businesses in town are entirely charming.
6. Taylors Falls, MN
Taylors Falls, MN 55084, USA
Flickr/kkmarals
Taylors Falls is a dream destination for those who love the outdoors. The town is perfect for hiking and exploring and everything is entirely picturesque during any season of the year. If you live in the Minneapolis area and are searching for "waterfalls near me," Taylor Falls definitely needs to be on your bucket list.
7. Osceola, WI
Osceola, WI 54020, USA
Gary Sankary/Flickr
We'll throw an honorable mention out to the inferior state to our east (just kidding!) by appreciating Osceola, Wisconsin.. Its waterfall is legendary; the small town charm is intoxicating, and the train rides to see fall foliage annually are downright magical. Maybe Wisconsin isn't so bad, after all.
8. Lindstrom, MN
Lindstrom, MN, USA
Flickr/Tony Webster
A day trip to Lindstrom is one well worth it. America's Little Sweden is one of the most charming towns near Minneapolis, and possibly within the entire state of Minnesota. Its dedication to Swedish culture, its beautiful lakes and farms, and its people are amazing.
9. Northfield, MN
Northfield, MN 55057, USA
Flickr/Martin Patrick
Northfield is your typical college town, with St. Olaf and Carleton College sharing campuses here, and it has some of the most beautiful historic buildings. Jesse James and his gang tried to rob the town's bank in the 1800s, so Northfield has a bit of edge to it as well.
10. Freeport, MN
Freeport, MN 56331, USA
Flickr/Paul Rosemeyer
Freeport is the quintessential Minnesota small town yet still offers a wide array of unique things to do around Minneapolis. With a population of a mere 650 people, it's one of those places where everyone knows everyone. The town's beloved Charlie's Cafe is a staple, and the Hemker Park and Zoo attracts Minneapolitans who are passionate about saving endangered animal species.

With so much to see, do, and experience, we just know you’ll love these towns. What’s your favorite small town near Minneapolis to take a day trip? Let us know in the comments below.

Curious to hear more about Carlos Creek Winery? Then check out The Day Trip Of A Lifetime You Can Only Take From Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

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Best day trips in Minnesota

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 01, 2022

What is the most popular restaurant in Minnesota?

It depends on who you ask! Minnesota really is a great state in which to find and enjoy a wide array of amazing gastronomic adventures. Whether you like Thai, Mexican, French, Japanese, or Greek, you will find it throughout The North Star State. One of the most well-known restaurants far and wide is the Duluth Grill. Located in its namesake town of Duluth, it has been featured on the Food Network for its outstanding hometown comfort food.

Are there any haunted places in Minneapolis?

As a matter of fact, there are! If you are looking to experience a bit of the supernatural in and around Minneapolis, we’ve got a list for you. Among the city’s haunted places are the Fitzgerald Theater and the Wabasha Street Caves, both located in St. Paul, and the Roselawn Cemetery in Roseland (OK, aren’t all cemeteries haunted?), just to name a few.

Where can I find the largest state park in Minnesota?

The largest state park in Minnesota is called St. Croix State Park. Located in Hinckley, the park is massive, encompassing approximately 34,000 acres. You could literally spend an entire weekend or longer here; there is so much to see, do, and experience. As you might imagine, there are great hiking trails, and other recreational activities including kayaking, swimming, bird watching, and camping. It is truly one of the most beautiful places in the state.

Where can I go for a romantic walk in Minnesota?

Minnesota may not be for lovers like they say in Virginia, yet we still offer some spots for taking a romantic walk with your significant other. The Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis, which is for pedestrian and bike traffic only, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska which is simply stunning, and the Downtown Lakewalk in Duluth with its spectacular views. are just a few that come to mind.

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